ISMS Code of Ethics

The medical profession has long subscribed to a body of ethical statements developed primarily for the benefit of the patient. The code of ethics, which has been adopted by the Illinois State Medical Society, is not set in law, but establishes standards of conduct that define the essentials of honorable behavior for physicians. Membership in ISMS signifies a commitment and dedication to uphold these standards.

The following Code of Ethics represents standards of conduct defining the essentials of honorable behavior for the physician. They are not laws.

1. A physician shall be dedicated to providing competent medical service with compassion and respect for human dignity and rights.
2. A physician shall uphold the standards of professionalism, be honest in all professional interactions, and strive to report physicians deficient in character or competence, or those who engage in fraud or deception, to appropriate entities.
3. A physician shall respect the law and also recognize a responsibility to seek changes in those requirements which are contrary to the best interest of the patient.
4. A physician shall respect the rights of patients, colleagues, and other health professionals, and shall safe-guard patient confidences and privacy within the constraints of the law.
5. A physician shall continue to study, apply and advance scientific knowledge, maintain commitment to medical education, make relevant information available to patients, colleagues, and the public, obtain consultation, and use the talents of other health professionals when indicated.
6. A physician shall, in the provision of appropriate patient care, except in emergencies, be free to choose whom to serve, with whom to associate, and the environment in which to provide medical service.
7. A physician shall recognize a responsibility to participate in activities contributing to an improved community and the betterment of public health.
8. A physician shall, while caring for a patient, regard responsibility to the patient as paramount.
9. A physician shall support access to medical care for all people.

Ethical standards are the foundation of a profession. As a single House of Medicine, the ISMS and AMA have identical ethical standards